Monitor suitable for imaging

January 8, 2009 2:00 PM

I'm looking for a great imaging monitor for around $400-500 bucks. It needs to have at least a 170 degree viewing angle and at least 24 inches or more. (26'' would be ideal) I'm running a P.C.

I am a little wet behind the ears on this, though I am looking for professional gear. The local pro photo shop is at a loss for the price point of $500 bucks because of a problem with their distributor. I do know that the viewing angle is a must. [ I am seeing specs that list a horizontal and a vertical for viewing angle. How do I decifer this? ] I am a little flexible on the price. Links appreciated. Thanks everybody.

posted by captainsohler to Computers & Internet (5 answers total)

Not sure if it counts as "professional" (I'm definitely an amateur when it comes to imaging), but I'm happy with my Dell 2408WFP, which I believe fits into your price point. It's a wide gamut LCD screen, so you need to use colour-managed applications (e.g., Adobe Photoshop), otherwise everything is horribly oversaturated, especially on a Mac (which is what I use it with).
posted by Emanuel at 2:23 PM on January 8, 2009

I'm also an amateur but I've heard only good things about the Dell series of monitors.

My main monitor is a 2208WFP.
posted by katrielalex at 2:41 PM on January 8, 2009

The Dell 2408WFP that Emanuel mentioned is a solid choice for the money you want to spend. If at all possible, I recommend you purchase (or borrow) a tool like this to calibrate your monitor because it's sure to be overly-saturated and too bright straight out of the box. After calibration, however, it should be quite accurate.

I'd stay away from the 26" panels; it's an odd size and every one I've seen looked like crap. My personal recommendation is for either a 24" with an equal size (or smaller) extra monitor (this can be an old spare because you'll most likely be using it just for tool palettes) or a single 30".

Keep an eye on the Hot Deals forums at Slick Deals and FatWallet to check for price drops and coupon codes. Good Luck!
posted by LuckySeven~ at 3:18 PM on January 8, 2009

Oh, I forgot: most manufacturer claims about viewing angles, response time, etc. are exaggerated so those specs are best taken with a huge grain of salt. Try to view the monitors you're interested in in person, if at all possible. If that's just not feasible, do plenty of research at trusted sites and only buy from a company with a good customer service rating and fair return policies.
posted by LuckySeven~ at 3:38 PM on January 8, 2009

If you have some time for a little reading check this thread at Anandtech for a good rundown of various models for different uses.
posted by asterisk at 8:27 PM on January 8, 2009